‘It was a race! They are competition briefs! They make me cool and faster! My legs move more freely! They’re funny!’

Then I paused. I was immediately disappointed that my gut reaction to this man’s horrific comments was to defend my wardrobe choice.

After all, there were photos from the race of shirtless men, men in short shorts, men in tight shorts; yet he did not feel motivated to comment on their potential for inviting sexual assault.

Laurah Lukin / Facebook

Laurah also spoke about how this type of comment is a symptom of a culture that tolerates and excuses rape, and more needs to be done to deal with this issue.

She added:

I do not want these comments to simply be reported to Facebook (which they have been by the photographer) or deleted from the photo comments (which they were by the photographer).

While such actions are indeed appropriate, it does not address or help change the global and persistent cultural assumption that rape is preventable if a female would simply behave or dress a certain way.

It is not my responsibility to choose a race outfit or workout apparel to deter the temptation of men.

The length of my shorts is not an indication of interest, invitation or consent.

Laurah Lukin / Facebook

For a moment Laurah debated writing a response to a man but realised it would not change his mind, and she is right.

Although the comment has since been reported to Facebook and removed, this action isn’t enough and more needs to be done at the root of the problem: society’s attitude.